Climbing
Climbing and rope activities for all abilities
Climbing at Calvert Lakes
Climbing is an exciting and inclusive activity that can be adapted, with both the setting and equipment, to suit a wide range of needs. Calvert Lakes offers a choice of climbing and roped activities that people of all abilities can enjoy in a safe and supportive environment.
Onsite we have an amazing sports hall with a moveable climbing and bouldering wall. By changing the pitch, we create easier or harder ascents depending on the amount of challenge preferred. Our accessible climbing facilities provide a range of opportunities for beginners and intermediate climbers, with experienced instructors on hand to give expert guidance and encouragement every step of the way.
Our abseil slab allows for descent in a wheelchair. Even those with the most complex needs can be rigged up and safely lowered to the ground whilst remaining in their chair.
We also have roped systems which allow for aided climbing and spinning just off the floor, so although not technically climbing, they create similar sensations.
Outside of the centre, we offer climbing and abseiling at the Bowderstone, a giant local boulder situated near an old quarry featuring a 60ft abseil!
Climbing will look different for everyone. For mobile people, there are routes that challenge and for less mobile, we have adaptive harnesses, hoists and rope activities that push boundaries and offer sensory experiences.
The exhilaration of leaving the ground is a personal, embodied thrill that almost anyone can experience. Wheelchair users have the option to abseil down our wheelchair slab outside the sports hall or try our indoor swing.
We can adapt all our activities to a pace and level that suits the needs of a group, ensuring everyone can challenge themselves and experience fun and rewarding adventures.
Indoor climbing wall
Outside rock climbing
Climbing is great for:
Building physical strength
Adaptive climbing equipment
Wheelchair challenge course
Hoists & harnesses for less mobile guests
Adjustable climbing wall
Accessible swing activities
Wheelchair abseil slab
Level access for roped elements
“Excellent. Appreciate being able to access a facility like this where it’s inclusive of all abilities to be able to see my son take part in things not possible elsewhere that he’s ever had the experience of is amazing”
Calvert Lakes Guest
“They were well managed and staff were very knowledgeable and friendly, and always willing to go the extra mile to help us feel comfortable, safe and secure, without being over cautious.”
Calvert Lakes Guest
“We had so much fun doing everything and it was all so inclusive “
Calvert Lakes Guest
“Activities were amazing, the equipment was top notch. The instructors were very knowledgeable and encouraged the children and adults all week. Our instructor Bea was always energetic and enthusiastic with the group and made accomodation for our child’s SEN.”
Calvert Lakes Guest
Climbing FAQs
Take a look at our most frequently asked questions.
Who can enjoy climbing?
Indoor climbing in the traditional sense is best for mobile guests who can use their hands and feet to climb using holds on a climbing wall. For less mobile visitors, climbing might look more like trying an abseil, swing or being hoisted up a gently pitched climbing wall. Everyone can experience the thrill of leaving the ground and we can alter the degree depending on the needs of the individual.
Where is climbing available at Calvert Lakes?
Primarily, we use our well-equipped sports hall for climbing although we can take more ambulant groups rock climbing in the Lake District. Ask our activities coordinators for more information about climbing off-site.
Is climbing safe?
Yes, we provide helmets and harnesses to all climbers, and every activity is monitored and supported by a team of experienced instructors. Climbers are clipped onto ropes and belayed by at least one other person and our equipment is regularly checked to ensure its integrity and quality.
How long does climbing take?
Climbing or rope activities onsite are usually offered as a morning or afternoon activity and can take up to 2 hours, depending on group size and ability. Groups can choose what they want to try and our activity programmes are customised to achieve desired outcomes.
Funding for adventure breaks
We’re committed to making our activity breaks accessible to as many people as possible, which is why limited bursary funding is available to help reduce the cost. Because our funding is often restricted, we prioritise those who’d most benefit from financial assistance. While we cannot guarantee support for every enquiry, we encourage anyone facing financial barriers to get in touch. Our team is here to guide you through the process and help you explore the options available.
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